US Coast Guard offers tips for boating safety
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary urges boat owners to do some “spring cleaning” on their boats as they take to the lakes this summer.
“They, too, have been in a somewhat hibernated state for several months and will now be asked to perform for us as if nothing has happened,” a news release said.
After storing a boat either in the water or on land, the auxiliary recommends taking the following maintenance steps:
• Go over the electrical system from the batteries to the generator to the appliances or lights they support to make sure everything works.
• Check the oil level. If the engine has not been operated much during the winter, owners may want to go ahead and change the oil after a long period of inactivity.
• For outboard motors, make sure the fuel line is intact and does not leak. The rubber hoses and squeeze bulbs “take a hit from sunshine” and from the fuel itself, the release said. “The same applies to propane tanks and their lines.”
• If the engine has not been operated for some time, don’t be surprised if it won’t start or runs poorly once started. Check the fuel supply.
• Make sure radios are operational. Boat owners may want to purchase one or make sure they have a cellphone with them at all times.
• Check all the lines or ropes used on the boat, especially the anchor rope, to make sure they are not frayed or torn. If they are, consider replacement.
• Check all the life jackets and flotation devices. If they are worn or badly faded, consider replacement. “They work hard, need to be ready, and in good condition at a moment’s notice,” it said.
The auxiliary recommends boaters “check everything,” either themselves or by taking it to a local marina or boat mechanic to have it professionally checked.
“The last item to check and probably the most important is you: the captain and your crew,” the release said.
“You’re the glue that holds everything together. The best boat in the world is not a safe one if the crew doesn’t know how to operate it or follow the rules of the marine environment.”
For more information about services provided by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, call 501282-3289.
The auxiliary is composed of uniformed, nonmilitary volunteer civilians who assist the Coast Guard in all of its varied missions, except for military and direct law enforcement.